How to communicate chronic pain symptoms effectively

Wednesday

Dec 28, 2011 at 12:01 AMDec 28, 2011 at 12:30 PM

When it comes to chronic pain — discomfort that generally lasts three to six months or more – it “is a subjective experience and though there is no way to measure it, it is very real,” says Dr. Robert N. Jamison, chief psychologist at the Pain Management Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Ashley Haugen

When it comes to chronic pain — discomfort that generally lasts three to six months or more – it “is a subjective experience and though there is no way to measure it, it is very real,” says Dr. Robert N. Jamison, chief psychologist at the Pain Management Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

If you’re dogged by chronic pain, see a health-care provider and be open about what you’re experiencing. Some guidelines to ensure you get the care you deserve.

1 Pinpoint the pain. Rather than say “My back hurts” or “My joints are aching,” tell your provider exactly where your back hurts and which joints bother you, and when. Download the American Chronic Pain Association’s body chart so you can circle painful areas. (Go to http://www.theacpa.org/default.aspx and
click on “Pain Management Tools,” then “Communication Tools.”) You’ll also find a pain log and quality-of-life scale on the site. The more information you can give your doctor, the greater the likelihood she can help you.

2. Rate the pain. “The most common indicator of pain intensity is the zero to 10 scale,” says Jamison. “Zero means no pain and 10 means the worst pain.” And don’t be shy: Use descriptive words like excruciating, all-encompassing or debilitating so your doctor will better understand the magnitude of your condition.

3. Give a timeline. Let your doctor know when the pain started; whether it’s constant or off and on; what makes it flare up; and whether certain activities make it better or worse.

4. Share the personal toll. If the pain is so bad that you’re depressed or anxious, tell your doctor. Ditto if you are tossing and turning all night because you hurt. And let your doctor know if you’re having trouble with everyday activities, be it climbing stairs, taking a walk or doing housework.